What Is The Advent Wreath? Symbols and Customs
| Symbol | Meaning |
| Circle | Eternity of God |
| Evergreen Wreath | Life, Immortality |
| Candle | Jesus is the light of the world |
| 4x Candles | Four weeks of Advent |
| 3x Purple | Purple= prayer, penance & preparation |
| 1x Rose (Pink) | Rose = Rejoicing |
Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is a circular garland of evergreen branches representing eternity. On that wreath, five candles are typically arranged. During the season of Advent one candle on the wreath is lit each Sunday as a part of the Advent services. Each candle represents an aspect of the spiritual preparation for the coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Also read: The beginning of a New Liturgical Year, November 27, 2016
Set on the branches of the wreath are four candles: three purple candles and one pink candle. In the center of the wreath sits a white candle. As a whole, these candles represent the coming of the light of Christ into the world.
1st CANDLE – (purple) THE PROPHECY CANDLE or CANDLE OF HOPE – We can have hope because God is faithful and will keep the promises made to us. Our hope comes from God. (Romans 15:12-13)
2nd CANDLE – (purple) THE BETHLEHEM CANDLE or THE CANDLE OF PREPARATION – God kept His promise of a Savior who would be born in Bethlehem. Preparation means to “get ready”. Help us to be ready to welcome YOU, O GOD! (Luke 3:4-6)
3rd CANDLE – (pink) THE SHEPHERD CANDLE or THE CANDLE OF JOY – the angels sang a message of joy! (Luke 2:7-15)
4th CANDLE – (purple) THE ANGEL CANDLE or THE CANDLE OF LOVE – the angels announced the good news of a Savior. God sent His only Son to earth to save us, because He loves us! (John 3:16-17)
5th CANDLE – (white) “CHRIST CANDLE” – the white candle reminds us that Jesus us the spotless lamb of God, sent to wash away our sins! His birth was for his death, his death was for our birth! (John 1: 29)
